🇨🇦 Canada Passport Photo Requirements (2026 Guide)
Photo Dimensions
Canadian passport photos must be 50 mm wide x 70 mm tall (1.97 x 2.76 inches). This is a rectangular portrait format that is taller than the US square and wider than the European 35x45mm standard. For digital submissions, the resolution should be 591 x 827 pixels at 300 DPI.
Background Requirements
The background must be white or off-white, plain and uniform with no shadows or patterns. The background must contrast with the subject's skin tone and clothing.
Face and Expression
A neutral expression with mouth closed is required. No smiling. Your face must be centred, with both ears visible. The head height must be 32-37 mm from chin to crown. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking directly at the camera. The head must be straight, not tilted or turned.
Glasses
Glasses are allowed in Canadian passport photos, but with restrictions. Tinted lenses, reflective coatings, and sunglasses are not permitted. The frames must not obscure the eyes, and there must be no glare on the lenses.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons. If worn, the full face must remain visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead. Both ears must still be visible.
Photo Recency
Photos must have been taken within the last 6 months and must accurately reflect your current appearance.
Ear Visibility
Canada is one of the few countries that specifically requires both ears to be visible. Hair can be behind the ears but must not cover them. This is a common rejection point for applicants with longer hairstyles.
How Canada Compares to the US
| Requirement | Canada | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 50 x 70 mm (rectangular) | 51 x 51 mm (square) |
| Pixels | 591 x 827 | 600 x 600 |
| Background | White or off-white | White or off-white |
| Glasses | Allowed (no tint/glare) | Allowed (no glare) |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral or natural smile |
| Ears | Both must be visible | No ear requirement |
Common Mistakes
- Ears covered by hair: The most common Canada-specific rejection. Pull hair behind both ears before taking the photo.
- Using US dimensions: Canada's 50x70mm format is rectangular, not square like the US 2x2 inch format.
- Smiling: Canada requires a strictly neutral expression with mouth closed. No smiling, even slight.
- Wrong head size: The head height must be between 32-37mm. Too large or too small will be rejected.
- Shadows on background: Ensure even lighting to eliminate all shadows behind you.
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